John 3:16 by Nancy Moser

John 3:16 delivers Nancy Moser's unique brand of emotive, thought-provoking fiction, dealing with the crises of ordinary people like you and me.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Five people looking for a reason to keep living are about to find it in the last place they expect... In my usual "big cast" style comes a story of what happens when one man puts his faith on the line and holds up a John 3:16 sign at a sporting event. Roman Paulson's life revolves around his son, Billy, a University of Nebraska football hero with a promising life ahead of him. But when Billy's coach encroaches on Roman's relationship with his son, Roman fears he'll lose Billy forever. Roman isn't the only one whose world turns upside down. He's one of five unsuspecting people whose lives intersect on a bright fall day.

If you would like to read the first chapter of John 3:16, go HERE

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/141432054X

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Nancy Moser is the author of three inspirational humor books and eighteen novels, including Solemnly Swear, Time Lottery, a Christy Award winner, and her latest historical, Washington's Lady.Nancy and her husband Mark live in the Midwest. She’s earned a degree in architecture, traveled extensively in Europe, and has performed in numerous theaters, symphonies, and choirs. She gives Said So Sister Seminars around the country, helping women identify their gifts as they celebrate their sisterhood. She is a fan of anything antique—humans included.

Find out more at Nancy Moser.com and Sister Circles.com.

It's Not About Me by Michelle Sutton

I’ve got a treat for readers today—an interview with the indefatigable Michelle Sutton! Yes, I know that’s a huge, obscure word to describe this lovely lady, but it means energetic, enthusiastic, and unstoppable. I think that sums up a woman who continues to pour her all into writing and promoting Christian fiction. She’s an avid book reviewer and the editor of Christian Fiction Online magazine. Her debut novel, It’s Not About Me, released this month from Sheaf House publisher. Read on and answer a question at the end for a chance at a free, signed copy of It’s Not About Me.

Q: So, Michelle, what is your new book about, and what inspired you to write it?

A: My story is about a young woman who has a great future ahead of her, but weak faith and a boyfriend who is putting pressure on her to do more than she wants to physically. When she is attacked and he finds her in a pool of blood, he bails and his brother visits her to provide friendship and comfort while she is healing at the hospital. She begins to have feelings for the brother and thus a love triangle ensues. What inspired me to write it was I had a friend who had the same thing happen to her while she was alone in the church office.

Q: What readership do you hope to attract to the book, and what do you hope they will take away from the experience of reading It’s Not About Me?

A: I hope to attract all readers but I desire for young adults (16-23) to discover the story and be inspired by the message. I hope they will see what true love really is, understand that faith isn’t just about being good and attending church, and that they will choose to wait for the person God has in mind for them to marry.

Q: Describe your writer’s journey for us and that sparkling moment when you learned your book was going to be published?

A: I started writing in August of 2003 and kept writing until I’d completed about 10 books before this one sold. Two aren’t really publishable. I call them practice books. I sort of knew for awhile that my book was sold and was just waiting for the timing, so it wasn’t really a big surprise or anything.

Q: Where can readers buy your book?

A: Right now there seems to be a shortage, but it is being backordered on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com and CBD (Christianbook.com) but people should be able to order it in bookstores, too, such as BDalton books, Borders, Barnes and Noble, etc. However, it is unlikely that most stores will carry it simply because it’s a small press and the application to have my book on display in stores is still pending. So by ordering it I mean going up to the desk and asking for it to be ordered, then picking it up when it comes in.

Q: Give us your web site address so we can find out more about you, your book, and even read the first chapter.

A: http://www.michellesutton.net/

Yes, you can read the first chapter on my site, too. There is a link to it on the page featuring my book.

Thanks for sharing with us today, Michelle. Many blessings as you pursue your ministry in Christian fiction.

Now, for those of you interested in a chance at the book, post a comment with the answer to this question: Michelle is the editor of what magazine?

Isolation by Travis Thrasher

Dean Koontz, Ted Dekker, and Stephen King fans, a treat awaits with Travis Thrasher's new release, Isolation.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Trapped

Exhausted

Terrified . . .

Alone

When a missionary family moves into a secluded mansion in the mountains of North Carolina, they think they are escaping their nightmares. But when a snowstorm hits and they are trapped inside their new home, their worst fears become reality. As they fight to stay alive, they will be tested in ways they never imagined. Can their love for one another and their faith in God save them from the dangers lurking here? A masterfully written story that will grip you from its mysterious beginning to its chilling end.

From Publishers Weekly:

"In this dark chiller, Thrasher (Sky Blue; The Promise Remains) demonstrates a considerable talent for the horror genre. Like Stephen King, Thrasher pits flawed but likable characters against evil forces that at first seem escapable but gradually take on a terrifying ubiquity.

The Miller family has recently returned to suburban Chicago after a harrowing experience on the mission field. Hoping to get away from the busyness of suburban living, they travel to the mountains of North Carolina for an extended stay in an enormous, remote lodge where husband and father Jim plans to write a book while trying to reconnect with his family. When a snowstorm isolates them further and spiritual attacks make them feel they are losing their minds, both Jim and his wife, Stephanie, begin to wonder if God can rescue them and their two young children. Aside from sharing too many plot points with The Shining, this novel hits very few false notes and should appeal to fans of Christian fiction, the horror genre and all who enjoy well-crafted and suspenseful stories."

If you would like to read the first chapter of Isolation, go HERE

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0446505544

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

It was during third grade after a teacher encouraged him in his writing and as he read through The Narnia Chronicles by C.S. Lewis that Travis decided he wanted to be a writer. The dream never left him, and allowed him to fulfill that dream of writing fulltime in 2007. Travis Thrasher is the author of numerous works of fiction, including his most personal and perhaps his deepest work, Sky Blue, that was published in summer of 2007. This year he has two novels published, Out of the Devil’s Mouth, and a supernatural thriller, Isolation.

Travis is married to Sharon and they are the proud parents of Kylie, born in November, 2006, and Hailey, a Shih-Tzu that looks like an Ewok. They live in suburban Chicago.

In the Shadow of Lions by Ginger Garrett

Good news for historical fans--I'm giving away a copy of In the Shadow of Lions by Ginger Garrett. Read on for the information you'll need to answer the question at the end and qualify for a chance at a copy of this lovely book.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

"I am the first writer, The Scribe. My books lie open before the Throne, and someday will be the only witness of your people and their time in this world."

So begins the narration of one such angel in this sweeping historical tale set during the reign of England's Henry VIII. It is the story of two women, their guardian angels, and a mysterious, subversive book ... a book that outrages some, inspires others, and launches the Protestant Reformation.

The devout Anne Boleyn catches the eye of a powerful king and uses her influence to champion an English translation of the Bible. Meanwhile, Rose, a broken, suicidal woman of the streets, is moved to seek God when she witnesses Thomas More's public displays of Christian charity, ignorant of his secret life spent eradicating the Bible, persecuting anyone who dares read it.

Historic figures come alive in this thrilling story of heroes and villains, saints and sinners, angels and mortals ... and the sacred book that will inspire you anew. Fans of Francine Rivers and Karen Kingsbury will love Ginger's intriguing combination of rich character development, artful settings, and inspiring historical insights.

If you would like to read an excerpt from In The Shadow Of Lions, go HERE

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0781448875

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ginger Garrett is the critically acclaimed author of Chosen: The Lost Diaries of Queen Esther, which was recognized as one of the top five novels of 2006 by the ECPA, and Dark Hour. An expert in ancient women's history, Ginger creates novels and nonfiction resources that explore the lives of historical women.

Her newest release is Beauty Secrets of the Bible, (September 11, Thomas Nelson) based on the historical research that began in her work on Chosen. The book explores the connections between beauty and spirituality, offering women both historical insights and scientific proofs that reveal powerful, natural beauty secrets.

A frequent radio guest on stations across the country, including NPR and Billy Graham's The Hour of Decision, Ginger is also a popular television guest. Her appearances include Harvest Television, Friends & Neighbors, and Babbie's House. Ginger frequently serves as a co-host on the inspirational cable program Deeper Living. In 2007, Ginger was nominated for the Georgia Author of the Year Award for her novel Dark Hour.

When she's not writing, you may spy Ginger hunting for vintage jewelry at thrift stores, running (slowly) in 5k and 10k races, or just trying to chase down one of her errant sheepdogs. A native Texan, she now resides in Georgia with her husband and three children.

DRAWING QUESTION: What is the name of the street woman in the featured book? Reply with the answer and contact information, and your name will be in the hat for a chance at the book!

Wounded: A Love Story

I had the awesome opportunity to endorse this book for one of my favorite authors. Here's what I had to say: This is not a tame book, but a rich experience for the senses, a challenge to the mind, and a ministry of unique grace to the heart.

If you're interested in winning a copy, read through the blog post and answer the pertinent question at the end.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

SHE HAD A VISION OF CHRIST PLACING TWO PERFECT RED ROSES IN HER HANDS...AND THEN SHE WAS WOUNDED!

If a miracle happened to you, wouldn't you tell everyone? What if they thought you were crazy?

Gina Merritt, poor in health and rich in faith is the last person to expect a miracle to happen to her. As she sits in a pew on Ash Wednesday with throbbing pain in her knees and a raging migraine, she turns her concentration elsewhere and silently prays, "Share with me, Jesus."

Instantly she has a holy vision of the Son of God kneeling before her. As tears fill her eyes, Christ kisses Gina's hands, leaving two perfect red roses. When the vision fades, Gina's hands are bleeding.Anthony Priest, the junkie sitting beside her, instinctively touches Gina when she cries out, but she flees in shock and pain.

A prizewinning journalist before drugs destroyed his career, Anthony is stunned that he is suddenly overcome with a sense of well-being and he instantly knows that he is cured of his addiction. Wanting an explanation, Anthony follows Gina home.

Is it a miracle, or just a religious delusion? It seems like everyone who knows of the mysterious stigmata has an opinion, and it's not always favorable. Putting aside their difference and their mutual distrust, Gina and Anthony embark on a search for answers. Along the way they encounter an uncertain evangelical pastor, a gentle Catholic priest, a certifiable religious zealot, and a transvestite drug dealer, all of whom lend their voices to the tale.

It's a quest for truth, sanity, and grace…and an unexpected love story.If you would like to read an excerpt from Wounded: A Love Story, go HERE.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1434799387

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Claudia is the author of the popular Ragamuffin Diva blog and the David C. Cook novel Zora and Nicky: A novel in Black And White. She is also the author of Death, Deceit, and Some Smooth Jazz, and the Amanda Bell Brown Mysteries and the Exorsistah series for teens. Her work has appeared in Discipleship Journal magazine, The One Year Life Verse Devotional Bible, and Justice in the Burbs.

She lives in Michigan with her husband, five of their seven children, and a quirky dwarf rabbit.

JILL HERE:

I can't recommend the Amanda Bell Brown Mysteries enough. They're wonderful! Extraordinary, in fact! The first book in the series if Murder, Mayhem, and a Fine Man. Read this one before Death, Deceit, and Some Smooth Jazz. They're books to savor!

Here's the question for you to answer in order to qualify for a chance at Wounded: A Love Story.

What type of career did Anthony have before drugs ravaged his life?

I'm uber-excited to see my dear friend and crit bud's new book, Stepping Into Sunlight, come out in October. It's a heart-twisting, soul-warming, thought-provoking look into recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder. Sharon Hinck is a master at playing the emotions without insulting the intellect. You've GOT to get this book. Even Publisher's Weekly loved it, and they can be a hard sell!

Here's more about the book:

Stepping Into Sunlight
Copyright Sharon Hinck, 2008
Bethany House Publishing

One tragic event.
One project of healing.
One step toward hope.

A story for every woman who has wondered where God is when life hurts.

Penny, a Navy chaplain's wife, witnesses a violent crime and struggles with post traumatic stress while her husband is on his first deployment. She designs a project to speed her recovery: doing one small, kind act for a different person each day. The results are sometimes funny, sometimes heartbreaking, and often used by God in surprising ways.

"Sharon Hinck's authentic and endearing heroine is so convincing that I found myself praying for her!"
—Patti Hill, author of The Queen of Sleepy Eye

"Told with humor and lump-in-the-throat insight, Stepping Into Sunlight is a compelling story of learning to live again after trauma."
—Deborah Raney, author of A Vow to Cherish

ORDER IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/Stepping-Into-Sunlight-Sharon-Hinck/dp/0764202839/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1220644416&sr=1-1

And here's another one for your library:

Bon Appétit
By Sandra Byrd

The sequel to the Christy Award finalist, Let Them Eat Cake

Lexi Stuart is risking it all. Saying au revoir to the security of home, her job, and could-be boyfriend Dan, Lexi embarks on a culinary adventure in France to fulfill her life dream of becoming a pastry chef. Just when life seems set, though, the recipe goes awry and her life with God undergoes a major transformation as well. Now, she's got choices to make from the array in life's patisserie display window and just like at a bakery, choosing among delicious options is never easy.


"I was caught up in Lexi's tug-of-war between her charmed life in France with its possibility of romance, and the pull to Seattle where her family and a very special man long for her return. What a perfect story…" –Deborah Raney, author of Remember to Forget and Leaving November

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week and to join our deeper discussion of these and other titles go to Chapter-a-Week Chat at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAWChat/ where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

If you enjoy Chapter-a-Week take the time to tell a friend how to sign up. It's easy and free and a great way to find great books that fit each person's particular taste.

House of Wolves by Matt Bronleewe

Matt Bronleewe writes the kind of books that trip my trigger. Rare treasures in danger. Deadly secrets. Power-crazed villains. Innocent people in peril. The world at stake!

Check out his new thriller, House of Wolves.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

A mysterious book with a dangerous secret.

An evil brotherhood out to conquer the world.

One man stands between them . . . with his family in the balance.

In the twelfth century, Henry the Lion collected the rarest relics in Christendom. And to protect his most precious acquisitions, he encoded the whereabouts in a gorgeous illuminated manuscript called The Gospels of Henry the Lion.

The manuscript has been showing up and disappearing ever since. No one knows where the relic has been hidden . . . or its ultimate power.

Only one man holds the key to the mystery.

He's carrying it in his briefcase at his son's school for show-and-tell, and he thinks it's a fake. But he's about to find out just how real it is.

Because the wolves are rapidly closing in. And if August Adams can't decode the secret in time, the world's balance of power will forever be altered.

If you would like to read anexcerpt of House Of Wolves, it will be HERE

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1595542507

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Matt Bronleewe is a recognized producer, songwriter and author. The former member of the band Jars of Clay, has earned numerous awards producing and co-writing albums that have sold a combined total of over 20 million copies. His songs have recently been recorded by Disney pop sensations Aly & AJ, American Idol finalist Kimberley Locke, and more. Bronleewe has worked with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Michael W. Smith, International pop singer Natalie Imbruglia and Heroes star Hayden Panettiere.

Born in Dallas, Texas, Bronleewe was raised on a farm in Kansas, where he lived until he left for college in 1992. At Greenville College in Illinois, Bronleewe formed the band Jars of Clay with his dorm roommate and two neighbors, and the group soon found success. Though Bronleewe opted to leave Jars of Clay early on to pursue an academic career, he soon found himself in Nashville, co-writing, producing, and playing music professionally.

To add to his list of accomplishments, Bronleewe has expanded his love of story telling beyond music into authorship. He is currently penning a 5 book series for Thomas Nelson Fiction. His first book Illuminated began the adventurous series about rare manuscripts and the mysteries within.

Bronleewe currently resides in Brentwood, Tenn., with his wife and three children. He continues to write and produce music, and he also volunteers through his church to help disadvantaged youth in the community. Bronleewe enjoys reading, taste-testing good food and watching sports, as well as indulging his interests in art, architecture, design and science.

Trish Perry books are so much fun! What that means is that no matter what Trish puts out, fun things happen within the pages. Beach Dreams, her new release, is no different. Like the back cover says, it's "a book that tells the touching and humorous story about how God uses even our mistakes to bring about His divine purpose." Talk about an encouraging theme! I need to hear that a lot, because I make plenty of those--mistakes, I mean. So pick yourself up an encouraging slice of fun with this third in the Beach House series.

Oh, and read to the end of this post for a link to enter a contest to win a fun array of beach prizes!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Tiffany LeBoeuf seriously needs to get away. She has just lost her mother to cancer, and she returns home to find herself fired for devoting the past three months to her mother's care. Grieving and stressed, Tiffany seeks rest for her body and soul at a cozy beach house in San Diego.

A scheduling mix-up causes a double booking, and Tiffany ends up sharing the house with a woman named Eve. When Eve's boyfriend, Jeremy Beckett, arrives to surprise Eve, he surprises Tiffany as well. Jeremy and Tiffany share a brief history, and it's not a pretty one. They also share a mutual attraction, and it's not a comfortable one.

Jeremy settles in at the beach house next door, intent on making his love life right. What happens after that surprises them all.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?item_no=924467&netp_id=518972&event=ESRCN&item_code=WW&view=covers

Find out more about Trish Perry and her books at http://www.trishperrybooks.com/.

Here's the contest link: http://www.blogtourspot.com/. Go here to enter for an array of beach prizes!

New Chapter-a-Week Fiction!

The Black Cloister
By Melanie Dobson

Trapped inside an abusive cult, one woman is dying to break free.

After her mother commits suicide, Elise Friedman travels to Germany to search for answers and discovers her mother's dark secret inside the walls of a medieval abbey. When the man who destroyed her mother threatens to destroy her as well, Elise fights for a way out of the darkness before she is consumed.

"From the moment I opened up to the first page of The Black Cloister, I was hooked. This intense, well-crafted story about a modern day cult will have you wondering long into the night." --Linda Hall, Shadows in the Mirror


FOR PETE'S SAKE
#2 in the Piper Cove Chronicles
by Linda Windsor

Avon Inspire ISBN 978-0-06-117138-3 $12.95

Ellen isn't sure true love exists…until she landscapes the estate of the widower next door. Adrian has it all—at least on the surface. He's engaged to a beautiful woman and he'll soon have a stepmom for his troubled son, Pete. Yet from the moment Ellen rescues him on her Harley, his well-ordered world turns upside down. With his business under investigation for espionage and his son pushing for the tomboy-next-door as his new mom, Adrian's façade of happiness shatters. As Ellen's three best friends step in to help her navigate the uncharted waters of love, she must ask herself if she's ready to risk her heart and trust that God has brought this family into her life for a reason. [Available at local and online bookstores.]


BEST BOOK AWARD, Long and Short Reviews: "Linda Windsor will have you laughing, hurting and loving along the way...packed with chemistry, emotion, action, suspense, laughter, fun, faith and love. It is truly one of a kind. There was not a boring moment among the pages and I found myself completely drawn into the lives of these characters and the town of Piper Cove."

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week and to join our deeper discussion of these and other titles go to Chapter-a-Week Chat at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAWChat/ where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

Important Announcement!

Editors, and agents, and authors, oh my! They're all over the place at the American Christian Fiction Writers annual conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, September 18 - 21. And like a friend of mine says, the editors and agents are there on purpose to hear from writers. They'll be happy to see you. They'll take you seriously. So be there, or be square!

The deadline to register is this Friday, August 15, to qualify for the cheapest rate. Yes, you can still register after Friday, but the cost goes up. This is the premier Christian fiction writers conference in the nation. Don't miss it if you can possibly get to Minneapolis from September 18 - 21. If you can't make the whole thing, you CAN register by the day.

Here's the web site to register: http://www.acfw.com/conference/

Oh, and I just heard that the next 25 people to sign up will be in a drawing for a $25 Barnes and Noble gift card! How handy to use at the massive ACFW book signing scheduled for the Mall of America on Saturday, September 20, from 1 - 3 p.m., sponsored by the MOA B&N.

Will I see you there?

All Through the Night by Davis Bunn

Davis Bunn has come out with a new heart-twister.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A loner, trying to forget. A community--and a woman--who need for him to remember...Broken relationships and unfulfilled promises scatter themselves across Wayne's past like burned-out craters. His background in military special-ops is something he's trying to forget. But when he gets himself sweet-talked into helping a quirky group of seniors who've been scammed, he discovers it will take a lot more than muscle and nerve. Breach a conman's high-security estate to recover stolen money? No problem. Become part of community? Love again? Not on your life.

A lawyer with her own painful past is intrigued by Wayne and asks him to take on another unusual case--Tatanya's wealthy employer believes he's been visited by...an angel? Did a messenger from God in a pinstripe suit truly bring a divine warning, or is this merely another cruel hoax? Tatanya is willing to trust Wayne with her boss's life, but she's not sure she's ready to trust him with her own wounded heart.

With a financial analyst's skills and a warrior's tenacity, Wayne races to unmask dangerous forces hiding behind a corporate veil. But he will need all his resources--and then some--against an unseen enemy bent on destroying his fragile bid for a second chance at life...and love.All he wanted was to put his past behind him. But now it's the only thing that will save them...

If you would like to read the first chapter of All Through The Night, go HERE.

BUY THE BOOK NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764205420

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Davis Bunn is an internationally-acclaimed author who has sold more than six million books in fifteen languages. His audiences spans reading genres from high drama and action thrillers to heartwarming relationship stories, in both contemporary and historical settings. Honored with three Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, his bestsellers include My Soul To Keep, and Full Circle .



A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was named Novelist in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.He and his wife, Isabella, make their home in Florida for some of each year, and spend the rest near Oxford, England, where they each teach and write.

Win Dragonlight

I'm honored and delighted to talk up my dear friend's latest release, Dragonlight. Donita K. Paul is a major name in Christian fantasy fiction. Her books appeal to all ages--middle grade through adult. The kindly teacher in her draws flocks of kids, not only to her books, but to her web site and her site on Shoutlife.

She says one of her biggest awards was the day a young lady whispered in her ear at a booksigning. The girl said that she and her boyfriend had determined to remain pure like Kale and Bardon in Donita's books. That "award" came from God, and she treasures it like no other!

Because Donita's books are so special to me as her critique partner, I have a specific requirement for anyone to be entered in the drawing. Please tell someone else about her books--a family member, a relative, a co-worker, a friend. (Not the dog or the toddler. LOL) Refer them to this blog post for more information if you'd like. Then respond with a comment below, citing who you told, and you will be entered in a drawing to win a copy of Dragonlight. Oh, by the way, this whole series makes great gifts for young and old, for believer and nonbeliever!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

The fantastic land of Amara is recovering from years of war inflicted on its citizens by outside forces–as well as from the spiritual apathy corroding the Amarans’ hearts. With Kale and her father serving as dragon keepers for Paladin, the dragon populace has exploded. It’s a peaceful, exciting time of rebuilding. And yet, an insidious, unseen evil lurks just beneath the surface of the idyllic countryside. Truth has never been more important, nor so difficult to discern.

As Kale and her father are busy hatching, bonding, and releasing the younger generation of dragons as helpers throughout the kingdom, the light wizard has little time to develop her skills. Her husband, Sir Bardon–despite physical limitations resulting from his bout with the stakes disease–has become a leader, serving on the governing board under Paladin. When Kale and Bardon set aside their daily responsibilities to join meech dragons Regidor and Gilda on a quest to find a hidden meech colony, they encounter sinister forces. Their world is under attack by a secret enemy… can they overcome the ominous peril they can’t even see?

Prepare to experience breathtaking adventure and mind-blowing fantasy as never before in this dazzling, beautifully-crafted conclusion to Donita K. Paul’s popular DragonKeeper Chronicles fantasy series.

If you would like to read the first chapter of DragonLight, go HERE.

"DragonLight is a delight, but I wouldn't expect anything less from the marvelous Donita K. Paul. I heartily recommend her books to all ages who love inspirational fantasy and wonderful creatures. Ms Paul not only supplies imagination and talent, she provides heart and soul. Another winner!"~KATHRYN MACKEL, author of Boost

"Donita K. Paul is amazing! DragonLight has the allegorical depth to satisfy the most discerning adult seeking spiritual depth, yet it is fun enough to fascinate a child. This book will enthrall, uplift, and if allowed, change lives--as we are gently drawn to realize that each of us is flawed and must have patience with other flawed believers."~HANNAH ALEXANDER, author of Double Blind

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1400073782

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Donita K. Paul retired early from teaching school, but soon got bored! The result: a determination to start a new career. Now she is an award-winning novelist writing Christian Romance and Fantasy. She says, “I feel blessed to be doing what I like best.”

She mentors all ages, teaching teenagers and weekly adult writing workshops.“God must have imprinted 'teacher' on me clear down to the bone. I taught in public school, then home schooled my children, and worked in private schools. Now my writing week isn’t very productive unless I include some time with kids.” Her two grown children make her proud, and her two grandsons make her laugh.

Donita is an award-winning author of the Dragon Keeper Chronicle series including DragonFire and DragonKnight. When not writing, she is often engaged in mentoring writers of all ages.

Donita lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado where she is learning to paint–walls and furniture! Visit her website at http://www.dragonkeeper.us/.

Win "Painted Dresses"

When Patricia Hickman's new release arrived at my house, I opened up the package and kissed the cover. I love her books. She does relationship sagas with just the right touch of tension and fulfillment.

Painted Dresses is classic Hickman, and she even throws in a healthy twist of suspense. I mean, how can you miss with a story about a pair of orphaned sisters--one an out-of-control manic depressive and the other "normal" but relationship-challenged--on the lam from a crazed drug dealer? Hickman permeates the mix with a heartrending personal quest to uncover a dark family secret. Oh, and did I forget the sweep dollop of romance?

Wha-hoo! I'm in reader bliss!! Leave a comment at the end of the post to win your chance to join me there with your very own copy of Painted Dresses!!!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

In this story of sisterhood and unexpected paths, Gaylen Syler-Boatwright flees her unraveling marriage to take refuge in a mountain cottage owned by her deceased aunt. Burdened with looking after her adult sister, Delia, she is shocked to find a trail of family secrets hidden within her aunt’s odd collection of framed, painted dresses. With Delia, who attracts trouble as a daily occupation, Gaylen embarks on a road trip that throws the unlikely pair together on a journey to painful understanding and delightful revelations.

Steeped in Hickman’s trademark humor, her spare writing voice, and the bittersweet pathos of the South, Painted Dresses powerfully captures a woman’s desperate longing to uncover a hidden, broken life and discover the liberty of living authentically, even when the things exposed are shrouded in shame. If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1400071992

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Patricia Hickman is an award-winning author of fiction and non-fiction, whose work has been praised by critics and readers alike. Patricia Hickman began writing many years ago after an invitation to join a writer's critique group. It was headed up by best-selling author Dr. Gilbert Morris, a pioneer in Christian fiction who has written many best selling titles. The group eventually came to be called the "Nubbing Chits".

All four members of the original "Chits" have gone on to become award-winning and best selling novelists (good fruit, Gil!). Patty signed her first multi-book contract with Bethany House Publishers. After she wrote several novels "for the market", she assessed her writer's life and decided she would follow the leanings of her heart. She says, "It had to be God leading me into the next work which wound up being my first break-out book, Katrina's Wings. I had never read a southern mainstream novel, yet I knew that one lived in my head, begging to be brought out and developed." She wanted to create deeper stories that broke away from convention and formula. From her own journey in life, she created a world based upon her hometown in the 70's, including Earthly Vows and Whisper Town from the Millwood Hollow Series.

Patty and her husband, Randy, have planted two churches in North Carolina. Her husband pastors Family Christian Center, located in Huntersville. The Hickmans have three children, two on earth and one in heaven. Their daughter, Jessi, was involved in a fatal automobile accident in 2001. Through her writing and speaking, Patty seeks to offer help, hope and encouragement to those who walk the daily road of loss and grief.

Try Darkness by James Scott Bell

I'm excited to see the sequel to Try Dying. James Scott Bell is one of my favorite authors, because I haven't been disappointed yet when I pick up one of his.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

JAMES SCOTT BELL is a former trial lawyer who now writes full time. He has also been the fiction columnist for Writers Digest magazine and adjunct professor of writing at Pepperdine University.

The national bestselling author of several novels of suspense, he grew up and still lives in Los Angeles. His first Buchanan thriller, TRY DYING, was released to high critical praise, while his book on writing, Plot and Structure is one of the most popular writing books available today.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Ty Buchanan is living on the peaceful grounds of St. Monica’s, far away from the glamorous life he led as a rising trial lawyer for a big L.A. firm. Recovering from the death of his fiancée and a false accusation of murder, Buchanan has found his previous ambitions unrewarding. Now he prefers offering legal services to the poor and the underrepresented from his “office” at local coffee bar The Freudian Sip. With his new friends, the philosophizing Father Bob and basketball-playing Sister Mary Veritas, Buchanan has found a new family of sorts.

One of his first clients is a mysterious woman who arrives with her six-year-old daughter. They are being illegally evicted from a downtown transient hotel, an interest that Ty soon discovers is represented by his old law firm and his former best friend, Al Bradshaw. Buchanan won’t back down. He’s going to fight for the woman’s rights. But then she ends up dead, and the case moves from the courtroom to the streets. Determined to find the killer and protect the little girl, who has no last name and no other family, Buchanan finds he must depend on skills he never needed in the employ of a civil law firm.

The trail leads Buchanan through the sordid underbelly of the city and to the mansions and yachts of the rich and famous. No one is anxious to talk. But somebody wants Buchanan to shut up. For good.

Now he must use every legal and physical edge he knows to keep himself and the girl alive. Once again evoking the neo-noir setting of contemporary Los Angeles, Bell delivers another thriller where darkness falls and the suspense never rests.

If you would like to read chapters 1 & 2, go HERE.

“Bell has created in Buchanan an appealing and series-worthy protagonist, and the tale equally balances action and drama, motion and emotion. Readers who pride themselves on figuring out the answers before an author reveals them are in for a surprise, too: Bell is very good at keeping secrets. Fans of thrillers with lawyers as their central characters—Lescroart and Margolin, especially—will welcome this new addition to their must-read lists.”—Booklist

“Engaging whodunit series kickoff . . . Readers will enjoy Bell's talent for description and character development.”—Publishers Weekly

“James Scott Bell has written himself into a niche that traditionally has been reserved for the likes of Raymond Chandler.” —Los Angeles Times

“A master of suspense.”—Library Journal

“One of the best writers out there, bar none.”—In the Library Review

BUY THE BOOK NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1599956853

Are You "Searching for Spice"?

A lovlier, more fun lady you'll never meet that Megan (pronounced with a long "e," please) DiMaria. I'm totally jazzed to toot her horn for her debut novel, Searching for Spice. This charming lady lit novel will have you hooting, as well as rooting for Linda and Jerry in their honest fumblings to achieve that sometimes mysterious but always awesome symbiosis between husband and wife. Read the blog and post a pertinent comment for a chance to win a copy!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Have you ever dreamed of having a lip-flaming affair--with your husband?

That's the premise behind Searching for Spice. Linda Revere is a romance-deprived photographer's assistant who longs to experience a little romance in her 24-year-old marriage. But is she ready for what happens next?

Romantic Times Magazine ~ 4 1/2 stars!
DiMaria’s debut novel shines with warmth and wisdom. Linda and Jerry’s marriage is realistic, and readers will be able to identify with and learn from their struggles. A sprinkling of humor and detailed secondary characters raise this novel a notch above the rest.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/Searching-Spice-Megan-DiMaria/dp/1414318871/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1216386191&sr=1-1

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Megan says she has traveled to the ends of the earth and beyond within the pages of books. She was born and raised in New York State and has since lived in Maine, Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, New Jersey, and now lives in Colorado. She and her husband have three delightful, adult children and an old Jack Russell Terrier named Belle who seems to find its way into her novels.

BONUS INFO ON BOOK EXCERPTS AVAILABLE THIS WEEK ON CAW!

Daring Chloe
By Laura Jensen Walker
(Zondervan, June 2008)

Chloe has led a safe, quiet life. Adventure? No thank you! But when her fiancé dumps her the night before their wedding, her book club friends convince her to take the vacation of a lifetime and timid Chloe blossoms into daring Chloe. A Chloe who just might be ready to face her biggest adventure of all.

Endorsements:
What could be better than adventures with your reading group based on the books you read? Walker's novel explores the outcome with Chloe, a woman afraid of many things. …Touching and inspirational, and even those who have no interest in France will be entranced by the exquisite descriptions when the book club travels there."
—Romantic Times (4 Star Review)

" . . . Laura has created the most lively and life-like ensemble of women I've ever read. . . Her best novel to date...I'm voting it "Best Chick-Lit of 2008!"
—Deena Peterson, A Peek At My Bookshelf Reviews

WIND RIVER
By Tom Morrisey

Desperate to forget what happened to him in Iraq, Tyler Perkins flees to the emptiness of Wyoming. He's here to escape and also to fulfill a long-ago promise by accompanying his 86-year-old friend Soren Andeman on a fly-fishing trip—once more for old time's sake.

But their trek to an idyllic trout lake soon becomes something more deeply harrowing—a journey that uncovers long-held lies, deadly crimes, and the buried secrets of the past. Ty barely has time to contemplate the question of what constitutes justice when nature unleashes her own revenge. Trapped in a race back to safety, he must face his own guilt-ridden past or risk being consumed.

To read an excerpt of these new titles go to Chapter-a-Week and to join our deeper discussion of these and other titles go to Chapter-a-Week Chat at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/CAWChat/ where authors and readers discuss new titles together.

If you enjoy Chapter-a-Week take the time to tell a friend how to sign up. It's easy and free and a great way to find great books that fit each person's particular taste.

Promises, Promises

I have to rejoice with my web designer in her new release for Heartsong Presents. Whoo-hoo, Tiff! Waytago!!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Raelene Strattford knows God has promised never to leave or forsake her. But after the catastrophic deaths of her parents, she doesn t believe it. What kind of God would take a girl's family and leave her alone in a wild land where women have no voice? Gustaf Hanssen has admired Raelene from afar for a while, but his poor attempt at courting her in the past has made him unwelcome in her life. When Gustaf promises Raelene's dying father that he will take care of her, he finds himself bound to her happiness, her success, and her well-being in ways he never imagined. To keep his word must Gustaf really oversee all of Raelene's affairs, find her a husband, and maintain her farm, while she does nothing but scorn him? Can God reach through Raelene's pain and self-centeredness and give her the love that awaits, if only she will accept His will?

If you would like to read the first chapter, go HEREAt this time, Promises, Promises can only be purchased through the Heartsong Book Club.

BUY THE BOOK: http://www.heartsongpresents.com/book/detail/9781597899390/

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Hi, I'm Amber, but my friends call me Tiff, short for Tiffany, my first name. Writing had always been a hobby, a way for me to express my innermost thoughts and feelings in a way I sometimes find difficult with the spoken word -- although my friends will tell you 'shy' is not in my vocabulary. Thanks to the gentle nudging of a fellow author -- Tracie Peterson -- in 2002, I took the next step in my writing career and joined the American Christian Fiction Writers. I owe all so many there a hearty hug of appreciation for their constant encouragement and unselfish assistance. I feel a lot more confident thanks to their support and love. For those of you who are also fiction writers looking for a wonderful support group, check them out!

I got involved with web design in 1997, when I was asked to take over running the official web site for the television series Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. That eventually led to a series of negotiations where I was offered the job of running world-renowned actress Jane Seymour's official fan site. That has branched into doing web sites for a variety of clients, including: authors J.M. Hochstetler, Trish Perry, Kathy Pride, Louise M. Gouge, Susan Page Davis, and Jill Elizabeth Nelson, actor William Shockley (the voice of AT&T and Sony) and many others. With the help of a handful of other web site "technos," Eagle Designs was born! Feel free to visit and see our other clients.

Books are a definite passion. Why else would I be writing and publishing them? I firmly believe that a good book can take you away from all of your problems, into a world you've never seen. My favorite food is Italian; I sing all the time, and I once worked with my church choir to do a professional recording for a music CD of our performances.

I am in my 30's, married the love of my life in July 2007, and live in beautiful Colorado, but I love to travel and visit new places. Ultimately, my dream is to own horses and live in a one-level rancher nestled in the mountains. For now, I will remain where I am and do what I love—design web sites and write.

Snag Your Copy of "Wiser Than Serpents"

Here's a new release from fellow Minnesota author, Susan May Warren. She's an award-winning author and an all-around fun gal. Her personal experience in Russia as a missionary makes her extra qualified to write her Russia-based tales of romantic suspense.

Read through this blog post and leave a pertinent comment to be entered for a chance at a copy of Wiser Than Serpents. Also, there will be an announcement at the end from Susan herself regarding a contest she's running on her own blog, as well as a link to get there.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

When her sister vanishes into a human slave ring, FSB agent Yanna Andrevka is determined to rescue her. Unfortuantely, she's in over her head, with no way out, especially after destroying the undercover operation of Delta Force Operative David Curtiss, who is deep undercover in the Twin Serpents crime syndicate. David has his hands full trying to save Yanna, and his operation -- one that could rescue hundreds of women from the Serpent, or cost he and Yanna their lives. The thrilling next chapter of the Mission:Russia series!

Read an excerpt: http://www.susanmaywarren.com/c1_wiserthanserpents.html

BUY IT NOW! http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/product?event=AFF&p=1028342&item_no=786206

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Susan is a multi-talented, multi-published author, as well as a wife and mother of four. She holds a B.A. in Mass Communications from the University of Minnesota, and, in addition to her novels with Tyndale and Barbour, has had numerous articles published in Christian magazines and devotional books. She and her family returned to the U.S. in 2004 after serving for eight years as missionaries to Khabarovsk, Far East Russia. They now make their home on the shores of Lake Superior, in Northern Minnesota.

A NOTE FROM SUSAN!

Wiser Than Serpents will be going on tour July 7 through July 12!
Also, I want to hear from YOU! Yep, that's right. I'm giving away 3 signed sets of the Mission:Russia series. All you have to do to enter is leave a comment on this post telling me which mission organizations or charities you support AND why.

http://susanmaywarren.typepad.com/scribbles/2008/07/wiser-than-serp.html

I'll randomly be selecting three winners on July 15th! Fun.

Tom Morrisey = High Adventure

Tom Morrisey and adventure are synonymous terms in my reading vocabulary. And he's the kind of guy who not only writes wild, he is wild, as his bio at the end will reveal. Actually, one of his nonfiction books is entitled Wild by Nature. Need I say more?

ABOUT THE BOOK:

You Can't Outrun the Sins of Your Past

Desperate to forget what happened to him in Iraq, Tyler Perkins flees to the emptiness of Wyoming. He's here to escape and also to fulfill a long-ago promise by accompanying his 86-year-old friend Soren Andeman on a fly-fishing trip--once more for old time's sake. But their trek to an idyllic trout lake soon becomes something more deeply harrowing--a journey that uncovers long-held lies, deadly crimes, and the buried secrets of the past.

Ty barely has time to contemplate the question of what constitutes justice when nature unleashes her own revenge. Trapped in a race back to safety, he must face his own guilt-ridden past or risk being consumed.

Powerfully imagined by the acclaimed author of In High Places, Wind River is an engaging wilderness adventure that explores the power of confession, the beauty of forgiveness, and the freedom of truth unveiled.

If you would like to read the first chapter, go HERE.

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764203479

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Tom Morrisey is a mountaineer, aviator, shipwreck diver, and explorer, who holds a Full Cave certification from the National Speleological Society - Cave Diving Section.

He has launched, edited or contributed to numerous national publications and is an award-winning adventure-travel writer. A popular speaker, he is also active in both evangelism and the arts. Morrisey earned an MFA in creative writing from Bowling Green State University, and his fiction has been featured in numerous anthologies and magazines.

His first novel, Yucatan Deep (Zondervan, 2002) was a finalist for the Christy award, and he is the author of four other novels: In High Places (Bethany House Publishers, 2007), Dark Fathom (Zondervan, 2005), Deep Blue, (Zondervan 2004), and Turn Four (Zondervan 2004). In addition Tom has also written two nonfiction books: 20 American Peaks & Crags (Contemporary Books, 1978) and Wild by Nature (Baker Books, 2001). He and his family live in Orlando, Florida.

* * * * * * *

On Friday, I'll be participating in the blog tour for Susan May Warren's latest Mission Russia, release: Wiser Than Serpents. And I'll be giving away a copy. So stay tuned!

Kristin Heitzmann's New Chiller Now Available!

I'm a big fan of Kristin Heitzmann. Her stories dig deep into the human psyche, provide ample fodder for thought, explore unexpected directions, and stimulate the spirit. I'm excited about her new release with the clever title, Edge of Recall. I hope you are too!

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Tessa Young, an up-and-coming landscape architect who specializes in the design and creation of labyrinths, has immersed herself in the mythological, spiritual, and healing aspects of the elaborate structures. She also is searching for God and hoping to make sense of the nightmares that have plagued her since childhood.

When Smith Chandler, an estranged colleague--with whom she'd half fallen in love a dozen times before catching herself every time--calls to propose a project he claims is the opportunity of a lifetime, she reluctantly agrees to check it out. Smith is reconstructing a pre-Revolutionary War abbey for wealthy clients. Among its remarkable features is an overgrown labyrinth.

Unable to resist, Tessa accepts his offer to work with him. Soon she is immersed in the project of a lifetime. But one evening, after weeks of work in the labyrinth, Tessa and Smith are attacked. While protecting Tessa, Smith is stabbed, and the nightmare begins...again.

If You would like to read the first chapter, go HERE.

BUT IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0764228315

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Of her three main interests, art, music and writing, she chose to study English at the University of Colorado and thrived on Creative Writing and Literature classes. She married her husband Jim, and turned her energy to building a family. They have four children whom they have home schooled for all or most of their education. Kristen is a music minister with the ecumenical covenant community People of Praise.

Once she realized the stories in her head were truly a calling from the Lord, she made writing not just a passion, but a ministry. She has written seven historical fiction novels as part of the The Rocky Mountain Legacy series, the Diamond of the Rockies series, and the Christy Award winner Secrets. Most recently, she has written several contemporary fiction novels, including Echoes, Freefall and Unforgotten.

Kristen and her husband, Jim, and their family live in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she serves as worship leader in their church.

Get Your Copy of Calico Canyon!

Now, you know a woman with a smile this infectious must write fun stories! Mary Conneally is a delightful person, and she pens rollicking romances with a flair of faith and humor.

Read on to find out more about her and her latest release, Calico Canyon.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

Let yourself be swept away by this fast-paced romance, featuring Grace Calhoun, an instructor of reading, writing, and arithmetic, who, in an attempt to escape the clutchs of a relentless pursuer, runs smack dab into even more trouble with the 6R's - widower Daniel Reeves, along with his five rowdy sons. When a marriage is forced upon this hapless pair - two people who couldn't dislike each other more - an avalanche isn't the only potential danger lurking amid the shadows of Calico Canyon. Will they make it out alive? Or end up killing each other in the process? Running from her Abusive foster-father, a man intent on revenge, the prim and perfectly proper Grace Calhoun takes on the job of schoolmarm in Mosqueros, Texas.

As if being a wanted woman isn't bad enough, Grace has her hands full with the five rowdy and rambunctious Reeves boys─tough Texan tormenters who seem intent on making her life miserable. When, in an attempt to escape from the clutches of her pursuer, Grace is forced to marry widower Daniel Reeves, father of the miniature monsters, she thinks things couldn't get any worse. Or could they?

Daniel Reeves, happy in his all-male world, is doing the best he can, raising his five boys─rascals, each and every one. Since his wife's death in childbirth, Daniel has been determined never to risk marriage again.

When God throws Grace and Danielt together─two people who couldn't detest each other more─the trouble is only beginning.

Will this hapless pair find the courage to face life together in the isolated Calico Canyon? Or are their differences too broad a chasm to bridge?

If you would like to read the first chapter go HERE

BUY IT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1597899380

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

MARY CONNEALY is an award-winning author and playwright, married to Ivan a farmer, and the mother of four beautiful daughters, Joslyn, Wendy, Shelly and Katy. They live in Decatur, Nebraska. Mary is a GED Instructor by day and an author by night. And there is always a cape involved in her transformation.

Mary has also written Petticoat Ranch, Golden Days, and her latest, Alaska Brides that will debut in August.